As you know internet brings a lot of benefits to users . You can perform online transaction via internet for instance online banking and shopping just to name two. These are significantly convenient as compared to traditional way in terms of time saving and petrol saving indeed especially when during peak hour. However, Internet is also convenient for attackers, giving them multiple ways to access the personal and financial information of unsuspecting user. Attackers may use other people’s private information for their own financial gain, either by making purchases themselves or by selling the information to someone else. Thus it is vital that users take some precaution steps to prevent their vital data from being stolen.The followings are some ways to help internet user to protect their essential data.
1. Use and maintain anti-virus software, a firewall, and anti-spyware software regularly
It is strongly recommended to use anti-virus software and a firewall in your computer as it helps to protect you against viruses and Trojan horses that may steal the data on your computer and leave you vulnerable. Besides, whenever possible make sure you keep the virus definitions up to date. Use a legitimate anti-spyware program to scan your computer and remove any sypware or adware hidden in software programs as it may also gives attackers access to your data.Review 2008 top ten internet security software.
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2. Keep software up to date especially web browser
Install software patches in your computer so that attackers cannot take advantage of known problems or vulnerabilities. Patches are updates that fix a particular problem or vulnerability within a program. It repairs holes in software programs.
3. Evaluate your software's settings
The default settings of the majority software enable all available functionality. However, attackers may be able to take advantage of this functionality to access your computer. It is particularly crucial to check the settings for software that connects to the Internet such as browsers, email clients and so forth. Apply the highest level of security available that still gives you the functionality you need.
4. Develop a strong password
Through a strong password may add layers of protection from attackers. Avoid using readily available information, such as your mother's maiden name, your birthday.
5. Be cautious of emails requesting information
Never open an attachment or click on a link by an unknown party. Attachments can contain viruses and links can lead unsuspecting users to dummy sites where they are asked to input financial information or requesting you to confirm purchase or account information. Legitimate businesses will not request this type of information through email.
6. Dealing with reputable vendors
It is encouraged to interact with a reputable, established vendor before providing any personal or financial information as many attackers are trying to trick via creating malicious web sites that appear to be legitimate. Hence you should verify the legitimacy before supplying any information
7. Make certain that your information is being encrypted
Many sites use secure sockets layer (SSL) to encrypt information. Indications that your information will be encrypted include a URL that begins with "https:" instead of "http:" and a lock icon in the bottom right corner of the window.
3. Evaluate your software's settings
The default settings of the majority software enable all available functionality. However, attackers may be able to take advantage of this functionality to access your computer. It is particularly crucial to check the settings for software that connects to the Internet such as browsers, email clients and so forth. Apply the highest level of security available that still gives you the functionality you need.
4. Develop a strong password
Through a strong password may add layers of protection from attackers. Avoid using readily available information, such as your mother's maiden name, your birthday.
5. Be cautious of emails requesting information
Never open an attachment or click on a link by an unknown party. Attachments can contain viruses and links can lead unsuspecting users to dummy sites where they are asked to input financial information or requesting you to confirm purchase or account information. Legitimate businesses will not request this type of information through email.
6. Dealing with reputable vendors
It is encouraged to interact with a reputable, established vendor before providing any personal or financial information as many attackers are trying to trick via creating malicious web sites that appear to be legitimate. Hence you should verify the legitimacy before supplying any information
7. Make certain that your information is being encrypted
Many sites use secure sockets layer (SSL) to encrypt information. Indications that your information will be encrypted include a URL that begins with "https:" instead of "http:" and a lock icon in the bottom right corner of the window.
Credit:
- http://finance.yahoo.com/banking-budgeting/article/103893/Six-Ways-to-Safeguard-Your-Online-Assets
- http://www.marketwatch.com/news/story/six-ways-limit-your-risk/story.aspx?guid=%7BDD417708%2D0E40%2D465D%2D9720%2D4FB486EA87BD%7D&siteid=e2eyahoo
- http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Adware
- http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Spyware
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